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Malaysia is expected to experience hotter and drier weather in the coming month as the country transitions into a new monsoon phase
Speaking to Utusan Malaysia, Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) director-general Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said the onset of the Southwest Monsoon is part of the country's typical annual climate cycle.
This follows the end of the Northeast Monsoon in February and the transitional period leading up to the Southwest Monsoon, which usually begins around June.
He noted that the peak of hot weather in Malaysia is usually recorded between mid-March and April, with maximum temperatures in some areas potentially exceeding 37°C.
"Dynamic climate conditions can cause rainfall to decrease or increase compared to the average, depending on the influence of global phenomena such as El Niño and La Niña," he said.
According to Mohd Hisham, the Southwest Monsoon, which may begin as early as May, generally brings lower rainfall across most parts of the country, increasing the likelihood of prolonged hot and dry conditions.
Image for illustration purposes only.
Image via Bernama via New Straits TimesIf extreme El Niño conditions persist, along with a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), the dry spell could become more severe and potentially extend into next year
Mohd Hisham said METMalaysia will continue to closely monitor global climate drivers, including El Niño, the IOD, and the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO).
"We are also intensifying monitoring of rainfall patterns, dam levels, as well as drought and forest fire risk indicators to better detect and respond to the impacts of extreme weather," he said.
In light of the situation, the public is advised to:
• Use water prudently
• Limit prolonged exposure to hot weather
• Stay alert to official weather warnings to reduce health and safety risks
Earlier this month, METMalaysia conducted cloud seeding operations in five states following a drop in dam water levels.
This follows calls made late last month by former National Water Services Commission (SPAN) chairperson Charles Santiago, who urged the public to cut their shower time in half and avoid washing their cars daily to conserve water amid growing concerns over a potential water shortage.
